I feel very strongly about travelling in a way respectful of the local environment, history, culture and economy. These are the values of the Local Travel Movement, and I was very happy to contribute to their blog this week.

There are places on earth that somehow get to you, and sometimes it’s not easy to put your finger on exactly why. The tiny church of La Madonna del Bagno near Deruta is one of those places for me. I am charmed and moved every time I have the opportunity to visit, though at first glance you, too, may be scratching your head.

Sometimes you get the the point when traveling that you are restauranted out, peopled out, noised out. You just want a relaxed, simple meal. You just want to unwind in solitude. You just want quiet. Here are some suggestions for where to pick up your perfect picnic fare and the perfect place to consume it. With whom is up to you….